So now that the international break is over (finally!), things get back to reality at Old Trafford. Some Manchester United’s players were really impressive for their respective nations, but it’s time to relay that form in red. An unbeaten Leicester City lies await as the Premier League returns. Brendan Rodgers’ side are flying high after constructing a well-drilled attacking-line capable of menacing the meanest defences.

For Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the equation is simple. His side must start taking their chances to start winning again. Certain injuries plague their chances on Saturday, but United must put in all their effort to oust Leicester and move ahead in the standings.

Ironically, United’s 9.32 XPTS is marginally higher than Leicester’s 6.04 XPTS. It’s fascinatingly polarizing how much lady luck has separated these two sides, as United have scored more while only conceding one more than Leicester. As OGS aims to turn his misfortunes into good luck, a win against Leicester is crucial towards shaping a prolific September.

Manchester United Predicted Starting XI

Thankfully, Anthony Martial is tipped to be back against Leicester. Jesse Lingard, Paul Pogba & Aaron Wan-Bissaka all pulled away from international duties minor dings, but I think the latter two will be back if not all three. Luke Shaw remains the only one out.

Leicester City Predicted Starting XI

Brendan Rodgers’ fortunes couldn’t be better as his squad is injury-free. With his prime individuals not even featuring heavily, they’ll be fully fit attempting to make a statement at United’s expense.

Manchester United vs Leicester City Match Preview

The last time these two faced off at Old Trafford, a United side low in confidence from a distasteful pre-season campaign sneaked a win. Desperate for a win, OGS hopes history repeats itself on Saturday.

Now it’s not like United are especially disappointing. They’re tied tied for third (with Leicester) for goal differential. Arsenal, Chelsea & Tottenham Hotspur have all stuttered early on. But United still lack that killer instinct which could’ve, for me, ideally gotten them more points.

Regardless, after a stretched break, Ole hopes for a fully-fit unit. United must bring their A-game to defeat an unbeaten Leicester. Pogba should be moved upwards as he’s created the most number of chances for them, also bagging two assists so far.

Perhaps bringing in Nemanja Matic to add numbers in the midfield should neutralize Leicester’s swift, penetrative movements. However, Martial returning would be especially crucial. He’s contributed a goal or assist in every game he’s played, looking more comfortable in a central role where he can get into prime goal-scoring positions.

Daniel James can’t stop scoring, but faces his biggest task yet against the hard-working Ricardo Perreira or Ben Chilwell, depending on where he plays. Marcus Rashford should move into the wing where he’s a much bigger threat with his pace and impressive link-up ability with Martial.

However, the talk of the town is Harry Maguire facing his former side. The big-headed defender captained England for some-time against Bulgaria, packing him with confidence prior to a challenging reunion. Leicester, meanwhile, look to bring him down to earth. With the lethal Jaime Vardy, who’s already bagged 3 goals from just six shots, the Foxes have someone leading the fight against Maguire and co.

They possess an enviable midfield with two magicians in Youri Tielemans and James Maddison creating chances for Vardy in bulks. The steely Wilfried N’Didi-Hamza Choudhary combo inject energy into midfield. Maguire’s replacement, Caglar Soyuncu, looks a sturdy figure, while Kasper Schmeichel’s a pain to score past.

United must outwork and outwit Leicester, but more importantly, capitalize on their chances to see this through.

Prediction

While the realist in me says it’ll be a draw, my heart says that United will get back into winning ways. It should be a thrilling open contest, but I think United should scrape a 2-1 win to get back on track.

Where to Bet Premier League in the US

In the US, you can legally bet on soccer online in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.